At the start of its Dec. 10 session the Hawaiian Gardens City Council conducted its annual reorganization. Council nominations resulted in Maria Teresa being elected mayor by roll‑call vote and Luis Roa being elected mayor pro tem, each confirmed by unanimous vote.

The clerk opened nominations and, after a second and roll‑call votes, the motions carried. The council recessed for 15 minutes and invited the outgoing mayor and the public to a lobby reception.

The reorganization was procedural and carried by unanimous roll call; no related policy items were decided as part of the reorganization.

Next steps: the new mayor and mayor pro tem will preside at upcoming council business and the council will reconvene in its next scheduled meeting on Jan. 14, 2026.